NEW: TF Green Airport Ready for RI’s Thanksgiving Travel

It may look peaceful here, but for the next week it's going to be crazy. Here's how to make your Thanksgiving travel in and out of Rhode Island as smooth as possible.

Here comes the trickiest air travel week of the year, and TF Green Airport wants Rhode Island to know that it's ready for it.

The Rhode Island Airport Corporation (RIAC) anticipates an increase in passengers traveling in and out of TF Green Airport and the InterLink for the upcoming Thanksgiving Holiday. Air carriers report busier than usual passenger levels starting Tuesday, November 20 and continuing through Monday, November 26.

Thanksgiving travel tips

Travelers are encouraged to allow extra time to navigate from the parking areas to ticketing through the security checkpoint. Park on-airport and receive low rates from $10 per day to $50 per week. For more information and discount coupons, visit www.parkpvdairport.com.

The InterLink with its 20 daily (weekday) commuter trains between southern Rhode Island, the airport, Providence, Boston and points in between is also a convenient travel option for the holidays. Visit www.mbta.com for a complete service schedule.

RIAC, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and airline tenants would like to reiterate the following travel tips to minimize wait time at the checkpoints:

Arrive Early: Travelers should be aware that the lines may be longer at ticketing and the security checkpoint during peak travel times. Peak times are between 6:00am and 9:00am and 2:00pm to 6:00pm Customers are advised to check with their carrier for any weather related delays or cancellations.

Required Documentation: Government issued photo IDs must be presented with tickets or itinerary if checking in at the ticket counter. Passengers are required to present a Photo ID and boarding pass with the date of departure and the passenger’s name at the security checkpoint.

The TSA 3-1-1 Rule: Any liquids, gels and aerosols carried on a plane must be in 3oz. containers and enclosed in a one-quart, clear zip top bag, one bag per passenger.

Pack Smart: Travelers should remember to pack appropriately and be aware of what can and cannot be placed in carry-on luggage. Food items such as pies and cakes are permitted but may require further inspection. Other food items such as wine and cranberry sauce are not permitted though the security checkpoint. These items should be packed in checked luggage or purchased post security, in one of the airport gift shops.

New Screening Procedures for Passengers 12 and Under: Passengers 12 and under are now able to leave their shoes on when going through security checkpoints. TSA has also implemented new procedures that reduce, thought not eliminate, pat-downs of passengers 12 and under.

To help minimize waiting time, please remove all outer clothing, shoes and place metal objects in the bin or carry-on prior to reaching the checkpoint.

Visit the TSA Web site at www.tsa.gov or call the TSA Cares Helpline at 1-855-787-2227 for a complete list of restricted items and more tips for travel.

For added convenience, the airport has a business travel / frequent travel lane at the entrance of the security screening checkpoint. This lane is available for use by eligible passengers between 4:30am and 8:30am daily. Southwest Fly By and “A” list passengers and select US Airways and Delta passengers can also use this lane from 1:30pm to 5:30pm daily. All passengers will be screened by TSA at this point.

Meeters and greeters are reminded to connect with their party in the lower level baggage claim area. For updated flight information visit http://www.pvdairport.com.